Houses for Sale in Old City Nanaimo, BC

Search all Old City Nanaimo houses for sale and real estate listings below. Old City Nanaimo is a central neighbourhood in Nanaimo, BC, that offers the quintessential Nanaimo experience. The Old City has some of the city’s oldest buildings, many of which date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s. Nanaimo’s Old City is quite a large neighbourhood, featuring around eight hundred single-family homes. It also contains the much smaller Old City Quarter neighbourhood, a small largely-commercial area around Fitzwilliam Street, with charming boutiques, cafes and more. 

Houses are typically small character homes, many of which have had renovations but still hold their old charm. Studio NA is a desirable condo complex minutes from shopping and dining. To request up-to-date information about properties for sale in Old City Nanaimo, or to arrange a private showing, contact your Nanaimo real estate experts today!  

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Real Estate in Old City Nanaimo

In 2022 the number of homes sold in Old City Nanaimo was 4 single-family homes. Based on the statistics provided by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board (VIREB), the average list price for these homes reached $742,200, while the average sale price amounted to $751,800. On average, single-family homes sold at 101% of their listed price. The average days on market in Old City Nanaimo was 16 days.

The Old City is home to many of the oldest homes you’ll find in Nanaimo. These homes are generally located on quiet streets lined with mature trees and feature quite large yards around a quarter acre in size, with impressive gardens. Homes in this neighbourhood are characterized by vintage design features, including solid timber construction; large, custom front porch areas; unique window design; and large pillars. It’s common for real estate investors to complete extensive renovations on these heritage homes while maintaining their special architectural features, creating an appealing combination of modern convenience and classic charm.

The single-family heritage homes in Nanaimo’s Old city are often deceptively large, especially considering the full basements they usually provide. These basements offer great potential for real estate investors looking to enter Nanaimo’s real estate market, as they could be lucrative as mortgage-helping rental suites. Because the Old City is only around a twenty-minute walk from Vancouver Island University, there is plenty of potential for rental units that cater to students.

Of course, investing in a heritage home can be a big project, and many real estate investors are looking for move-in-ready properties. Nearer to the water, in the area around Front Street, you’ll find oceanfront condos that offer views over the Strait of Georgia. The Pacifica condo complex—built in 2009—provides a private park, beautifully landscaped gardens, spacious design, and ideal patios for taking in the views of the seaplanes and ferries coming and going in the harbour. 

You’ll find appealing townhouses built within the last few years a little further south. These compact yet spacious units could be great options for young professionals, those looking to downsize, as well as those considering investing in long-term rental or vacation rental properties. 

About Old City Nanaimo, BC

Nanaimo is known for being a quirky and very livable city. Across its nearly 100 sq. km., you’ll find all sorts of neighbourhoods to suit the tastes of a wide variety of people. You’ll find beautiful oceanfront areas near the Nanaimo Harbour and tranquil rural areas in the city’s northern and southernmost reaches. The University District is an exciting, up-and-coming part of town, while North Nanaimo offers much of the city’s best shopping. Nanaimo is a growing, evolving city full of potential and hidden gems. 

Old City Nanaimo is one of the most historic neighbourhoods you’ll find on Vancouver Island. The revitalization of many of these buildings has transformed Nanaimo’s Old City into one of the city’s most charming and artistic neighbourhoods over the past few decades. 

In the past, the Old City area was the main commercial area in Nanaimo, but these days it is more of a destination for shopping and relaxation. It is home to a few dozen restaurants and plenty of interesting independent shops. The revitalization of this neighbourhood began in the 1980s and continues today, as the Old City continues preservation as a culturally significant part of the city. 

Nanaimo’s Old City offers a relaxed pace of life and plenty of charming old homes, many of which feature impressive views over the Nanaimo Harbour. This neighbourhood is well-situated, providing easy access to the harbour and Vancouver Island University. Filled with unique real estate investment opportunities, Nanaimo’s Old City is an exciting neighbourhood for real estate investors. 

Things to Do in Old City Nanaimo

Maffeo Sutton Park

Nanaimo’s Old City neighbourhood offers great walkability and is filled with spots for taking in the charming surroundings. Maffeo Sutton Park is located right along the Harbour Front Walkway and offers views over the scenic Nanaimo Harbour. Within Maffeo Sutton Park, you’ll find swimming beaches, plenty of public artworks, a large playground for children, and a covered stage home to musical performances in the warmer months. 

Visit Newcastle Island 

Newcastle Island is a popular destination amongst people who live in Old City. The island is a provincial park that offers impressive views over the Strait of Georgia, the Coast Mountains, and Nanaimo’s Harbour. There are extensive hiking trails to explore on Newcastle Island and sites that celebrate the history of the Snuneymuxw people. The island is also a popular starting point for kayaking and canoeing expeditions. During the summer months, ferries from Maffeo Sutton Park depart for Newcastle Island every half hour—it’s a ten-minute ferry ride, and Newcastle Island also has mooring buoys for those with boats. 

Stroll Around Old City Quarter

Finally, Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter is worth a visit, whether you’re a visitor to the area or a local. It’s home to an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and boutiques. Many people find it peaceful to stroll the streets amidst the revitalized heritage buildings, and you’ll be impressed by the variety of restaurants and the diverse range of independent stores. There are also often interesting entertainment options in the Old City Quarter, including musical concerts, drive-in movies, holiday contests, and more.